Learning to swim not only provides valuable exercise, but also helps to prevent accidents in the water. However, whether you are looking for swimming instruction or planning to start your own class, you should take steps to ensure that basic safety measures are in place. By understanding some of the important safety considerations for a swim class, you can reduce the risks of injuries or even fatalities, and enjoy a positive experience while learning, or even teaching this essential skill.
Class Size
Limit swimming classes for very young children, such as 3- and 4-year-olds, to no more than five students, suggests Dan Miller, a swimming coach and teacher at Hubbard Woods School in Winnetka, Illinois. Younger children may be uncomfortable in the water and more prone to panic, requiring extra one-on-one attention. Very young children are also too immature to understand the importance of following safety rules, so smaller classes allow for better supervision. Class size can be increased to 10 students for older and more experienced swimmers, notes Miller.
Ability Levels
An assessment of students' ability levels is another important safety consideration for a swim class. Restrict inexperienced swimmers and students who don't know how to tread water to the shallow end of the pool. The YMCA swim program provides a list of skills students must be able to perform before advancing in ability levels, such as floating, treading water, and mastering a variety of swimming strokes. (reference 1) Matching students by ability levels prevents accidents by making it easier to closely supervise less experienced swimmers.
Equipment Safety
Flotation devices, such as kickboards, noodles and swim belts, are important in helping swimmers increase their confidence in the water, according to the YMCA. However, improperly used equipment can be dangerous. Inexperienced swimmers should never rely on a flotation device in water too deep for their abilities. In addition, submerged kickboards can surface with enough force to knock out teeth, warns the website at DeAnza College, Cupertino, California, on swim class safety. Inform students that floatation devices are not life preservers or toys. Students should never attempt to stand or sit on kickboards, says DeAnza College.
Training
Swim class instructors should always have certification to perform CPR and basic first aid, as well as training in teaching and supervising a swimming class. Ask about the certifications and training required of swimming instructors before choosing a swim class for you or your family members.
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